Got some stones lying around your house that don’t have holes? Take them out of storage and turn them into fashion! In this class, we’re going to learn how to do a simple cage wrap on chunky, irregular shaped stones (no cabs or flat stones). We’ll finish the look by creating a bail, and then add embellishments. This is a beginner friendly technique, so all levels of wire workers are welcome!

• 6:30 p.m. at Camp Mabry. Get directions and find out more about meetings.

Supplies Students Should Take to Class

• Needle nose pliers
• round nose pliers
• flush wire cutters
• flat nose pliers
• nylon jaw pliers (optional, but strongly suggested)
• a stone that has a chunky, rounded shape with at least one flat side. Experienced wire workers can do spherical beads or marbles, no less than 8mm is probably best. Rough stones are easier to wrap than tumbled, smooth stones. No flat stones and no cabochons!
• 3 or 4 – 1′ lengths of 20g round or square wire (dead soft or half hard)
• 3” – 6” 22g or 21g half round wire
• optional: embellishment beads (must fit onto your 20g wire)
• optional: prior to class, a rough stone (one that isn’t tumbled) can be sprayed with clear lacquer to create a shinier surface and make details in the stone more apparent. If you’re not sure that this would enhance your stone, soak it in water to see how it looks. Make sure the stone is completely dry before you lacquer it. Multiple coats may be required. Use in a well ventilated area and allow ample dry time before class.

About Jessica Blackwell

I admit it; I’m a shameless jewelry junkie. I love everything from Swarovski crystals to pebbles found in a driveway, and I’ll always find a way to make them wearable! Most of the time you can find me working at Nomadic Notions where I teach a variety of classes including seed bead weaving, wire techniques, and chainmail. I’m passionate about things that look unique and handmade. I believe that when something is crafted with care and love, it shows, and it speaks of the character of the person who wears it. Life is too short for boring jewelry!